Jennings, Louisiana (337) 824-3506

WHAT IS FINS?Families in Need of Services (FINS) became effective in all courts having juvenile jurisdiction on July 1, 1994, as Title VII of the Louisiana Children’s Code.

PURPOSE:FINS, or Families in Need of Services, is designed to assist troubled children (ages 10-17) and their families by providing information about various community resources making appropriate referrals.

GOAL:The goal of FINS is to reduce the number of children involved in formal juvenile court by referring children and families to necessary services and programs, such as counseling, substance abuse treatment, tutoring, and many more. A FINS officer will monitor each family’s case regularly to ensure that all services and referrals are making a positive difference.

WHEN SHOULD FINS ASSISTANCE BE REQUESTED?

If a child is truant and/or repeatedly violates school rules

If a child is a runaway

If a child is ungovernable

If a child has committed an act which, if committed by and adult, would be a crime under federal, state or local law. Such acts include but are not limited to gambling, curfew violations, alcohol possession or consumption, and tobacco use.

If a caretaker has caused, encouraged, or contributed to a child’s delinquent behavior

HOW DOES FINS WORK?The FINS process begins with a written complaint submitted to the FINS Officer.

WHO CAN MAKE THE WRITTEN COMPLAINT?

LAW ENFORCEMENT

PARENTS/CARETAKERS

SCHOOL OFFICIALS

DISTRICT ATTORNEY/JUDGES

WHAT IS THE PROCESS?

Preliminary investigation into complaint (Screening/Referral Form)

Conduct conference with family and responsible agencies

Initiate Informal Family Service Plan Agreement (IFSPA)

Monitor compliance with IFSPA

Refer only non-compliant families to court

WHO IS THE FINS OFFICER?The FINS Officer (or Coordinator) serves as a neutral third party, which helps to resolve individual/family conflict, by identifying problem areas and coordinating services without formal court intervention.